This is a Free #NHL play on the Chicago #Blackhawks.

The Blues just barely escaped with a 1-0 victory in overtime in Game 1. The Blackhawks out-shot the Blues 35-18, dominating the play for most of regulation and overtime. It was a lucky bounce that resulted in the game winner, and we saw Chicago bounce back with a commanding victory in Game 2. The Hawks went on to lose back to back close games, but down 3-1 in the series showed plenty of character with a win on the road in Game 5.

Patrick Kane led the NHL in scoring during the regular season, becoming the first American born player to win the Art Ross Trophy. He's the type of player that has the talent to take over a game, or even a series. He's not the only such player in the Chicago lineup, as Jonathan Toews and Duncan Keith are also capable of being that guy. This is something the Blues just don't have.

Their leading scorer Vladimir Tarasenko can put the puck in the net, but he's not of the same caliber of Kane and Toews. The only other player in the lineup with at least 20 goals was the captain David Backes who scored 21. Chicago is deeper, more talented and has the experience of winning multiple championships.

It was Kane that was the difference in Game 5, scoring the game winner in overtime. That could well prove to be the turning point in the series, and I expect the Hawks to force a Game 7 back in St. Louis.

Take CHI.

GL,

Jesse Schule